I have wanted to pick up a decent LED light to use for video and as a modeling light, but price and quality issues have been a concern. I already have several tungsten hotlights that throw off a lot of light and they also have a very good CRI (Color Rendering Index) rating. Unfortunately, those lights some drawbacks including no modifier mount, running dangerously hot and having fragile bulbs to worry about.

Godox SL60w constant LED light

I always thought a large LED panel with several hundred tiny bulbs would be a great way to get soft light in an efficient manner without having to use a big softbox. But after researching LED constant lights I learned the best way to accomplish what I wanted was to pick up a video light with Bowens mount like the Aputure 120D. I already have a bunch of Bowens mount modifiers so this was a natural progression for me to pick up one of these.

After watching a ton of video reviews of many different LED lights I decided to purchase the Godox SL-60w. They do have more powerful lights in the product line, but those are built with louder fans which can be a valid problem with video work. Early reviews of the SL-60w also had some reports of having a loud fan, but apparently Godox listened to the reviewers and now manufacture the lights with a quiet fan assembly. I can say wholeheartedly that the fan in my copy is extremely quiet and was elated when I tested mine for noise. The fan spins as soon as you turn on the unit and it does not ever ramp up.

As I mentioned, the SL-60w is not the brightest light in the kit. At full power with the 7″ reflector I measured it at f/4, 1/180 sec. 100 ISO at 6 feet (2.43m). For those that use a Godox AD200 flash, this is equivalent to 1/128 power on that. Once you add a softbox it’s adequate for use as a key light in video but don’t expect it to illuminate an entire room. At the price of $120 I’m not afraid to pick up several of them to do some video lighting should that need arise! They are super-efficient, quiet, economical and fit my existing modifiers so it integrates well with my system.

If I ever need to shoot outdoors I have a few AC two battery packs. Either should be able to power the light which draws around 80w at full power from what I’ve heard.

The light is not perfect of course. The angle adjustment tightening lever is fixed (unlike a Godox AD600 PRO or AlienBee) and some of the SL60 parts are plastic. The remote is mostly functional but has a bunch of bugs in its operation so I just put it in a drawer. A carrying case is not included and I’ve yet to test the longevity and build-quality of the budget light. The light does not mount securely on my junior mount C-Stand without a baby pin or adapter.